Soft pretzels are a beloved classic snack—warm, chewy, and wonderfully satisfying. Adding a sweet cinnamon sugar twist transforms these traditional pretzels into an irresistible treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you crave a cozy, comforting bite. These Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels boast a perfectly chewy exterior with a light golden crust, rolled generously in cinnamon-sugar and brushed with melted butter for extra richness.

This recipe combines simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward method, making it accessible for home bakers of all levels. After a quick rise, the dough is shaped into pretzels, boiled in a baking soda bath to develop that signature chewy crust, then baked and coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar blend. The result? A warm, sweet, melt-in-your-mouth pretzel that will quickly become a favorite.

Perfect for sharing at parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, these cinnamon sugar soft pretzels are easy to make and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Chewy Texture: Classic pretzel chew with a tender bite.
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Flavor: A perfect blend of buttery sweetness and warm cinnamon spice.
Easy to Make at Home: Uses simple ingredients and an approachable method.
Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Fun to Shape and Customize: Shape into traditional pretzels or twists for a fun baking activity.

Ingredients

Pretzels:

Instant dry yeast
Warm water
Granulated white sugar
All-purpose flour
Salt
Water
Baking soda

Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

Granulated white sugar
Ground cinnamon
Melted butter

Variations

Savory Option

Skip the cinnamon sugar and sprinkle pretzels with coarse salt before baking for a traditional soft pretzel.

Chocolate Drizzle

Drizzle melted chocolate over the cinnamon sugar-coated pretzels for an extra indulgence.

Glaze Topping

Brush with a simple powdered sugar glaze instead of cinnamon sugar for a sweet finish.

Stuffed Pretzels

Before shaping, add cream cheese, Nutella, or peanut butter inside the dough for a gooey center.

Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast breads.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Activate Yeast

In a large bowl, combine instant dry yeast, warm water, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Soda Bath

Preheat oven to 450°F. Bring 1 cup water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot.

Step 5: Shape Pretzels

Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape into traditional pretzels.

Step 6: Boil Pretzels

Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling baking soda bath for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake Pretzels

Bake pretzels for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While still warm, brush pretzels with melted butter, then generously sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use water at about 105°F to activate yeast without killing it.
Don’t skip the baking soda bath—it’s essential for authentic pretzel texture and flavor.
Work quickly when boiling pretzels to keep dough from getting soggy.
Use a wire rack to cool pretzels so they don’t get soggy underneath.
For extra shine, brush pretzels with egg wash before baking (optional).

How to Serve

Serve these warm cinnamon sugar soft pretzels on their own or with dipping sauces like:

Cream cheese frosting
Chocolate sauce
Caramel dip
Vanilla glaze

They’re perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, and pair wonderfully with coffee, hot chocolate, or milk.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Freezing

Freeze cooled pretzels in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore softness and warmth. Avoid microwaving, which can make them tough.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

Yes, but dissolve it in warm water first and let it proof until bubbly.

2. What happens if I skip the baking soda bath?

The pretzels won’t have the characteristic chewy crust or the classic pretzel flavor.

3. Can I make mini pretzels?

Absolutely! Just divide the dough into smaller pieces and adjust baking time accordingly.

4. How do I keep pretzels soft the next day?

Store in an airtight container and reheat briefly before serving.

5. Can I add toppings other than cinnamon sugar?

Yes, try coarse salt, sesame seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.

6. Is the dough sticky?

It may be slightly tacky but should come together easily with kneading and flour.

7. Can I make this dough in a bread machine?

Yes, use the dough cycle and then proceed with shaping and baking.

8. How long does the dough take to rise?

Typically about 1 hour, but it depends on room temperature.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend formulated for yeast breads.

10. What’s the best way to shape pretzels?

Roll the dough into a long rope, then form a U shape, twist the ends, and fold them down to meet the bottom of the U.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzels are the perfect combination of chewy and sweet, easy to make, and endlessly delicious. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a cozy night in, these pretzels bring warmth and comfort in every bite. With a buttery cinnamon sugar coating and that classic pretzel texture, they’re sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for snacks and treats alike. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the magic of homemade soft pretzels fresh from your oven!